The word "barkers" is spelled with a "k" instead of a "c" because it comes from the verb "bark," which derives from Old Norse "bjarka." The pronunciation of "barkers" is /ˈbɑːr.kərz/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with stress on the first syllable. The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced like the "a" in "car," and the "k" sound is sharp and aspirated. The second syllable has a weak schwa sound, followed by a voiced "r" sound and an inflectional "s" sound.
Barkers, a plural noun, refers to individuals or things that emit loud, repetitive, and often harsh sounds. This term can have multiple definitions depending on the context. In the field of entertainment, barkers are individuals found at fairs, amusement parks, or circuses who vocally promote or advertise attractions, rides, games, or exhibits to draw the attention of passersby. They use their loud voices and persuasive language to entice potential customers, often employing flamboyant and exaggerated statements to create curiosity and generate interest.
Furthermore, barkers can also refer to dogs or other animals that produce loud and sharp vocalizations, usually as a form of communication. Dogs, for instance, bark to express various emotions such as excitement, fear, or alertness, or to convey messages to other animals or individuals. In this context, barkers are seen as the noisemakers of the animal kingdom.
The term “barkers” can also be used to describe certain types of trees whose barks produce resin or other substances, often used for medicinal or industrial purposes. These trees are referred to as “barkers” due to the characteristic quality of their bark.
Overall, barkers generally signify those that make loud noises to communicate, attract attention, or convey information, whether they are individuals promoting attractions, animals signaling their presence, or trees yielding beneficial substances through their bark.
The word "barkers" has two main origins.
1. One origin is from the noun "barker", which comes from the Middle English word "berkere" or "barkere". This word referred to someone who stripped the bark, particularly from trees, for various purposes such as making baskets, tanning leather, or collecting medicinal barks. Over time, the term "barker" was also applied to those who peeled the bark for specific tree diseases or pests.
2. The other origin of "barkers" is from the verb "bark", which originates from Old English "brecan" or "bærnan", meaning "to break" or "to burn". From this, the noun "bark" emerged, referring to the protective outer layer of a tree, which similarly broke or burned when detached.